IMPLEMENTING THE NEW SES
PERFORMANCE-BASED
PAY SYSTEM IN DOJ

Justice Management Division
SENIOR EXECUTIVE FORUM
February 11, 2004

Issues Now Facing DOJ

How should the 1.5% increase (to the new Executive Schedule III cap) be handled?

• Series of potential options under review, ranging from granting the increase to all eligible SES members to granting it at end of next performance cycle. Key appears to be “meaningful distinctions.”



• Likely that some increases will be given, component heads will be consulted, and SERB will approve prior to award.



• Any pay raise to be given will occur in late February, early March; will not be retroactive to Jan. 11.



• Final decision to be made soon, but discretionary based on the AG’s authority.



• Note:  If an executive order is signed authorizing implementation of a higher pay adjustment for Government, then the SES pay increase could be raised from 1.5% to 2.2%.

Issues Now Facing DOJ

How can we best position DOJ to obtain certification as soon as possible?

• Take into account a variety of issues, including:
  • Level of position responsibility
  • Ensuring alignment with DOJ Strategic Plan
  • Ensuring alignment with performance accountability cycle


• Obtain proposal approval by DAG and AG.



• Seek certification from OPM and OMB.

Next Steps

1. Once decision on 1.5% pay increase is made, communicate it widely.



2. Organize the SES Performance Management Working Group to design alternatives, and finalize preferred alternative as soon as possible. (Offsite early March)



3. Work with DOJ HR community to ensure that all technical aspects of potential change are well understood and able to be implemented.



4. Receive AG and DAG approval.



5. Obtain OPM/OMB certification.



6. Implement new CERTIFIED system.

Other Issues

• Setting SES pay on initial appointment



• Setting limits on the maximum pay reduction



• Equivalent Systems: FBI and DEA



• Higher aggregate limit for SL/ST pay systems requires a certified performance appraisal system



• One set of regulations available (on implementation); second set of regulations (on certification) pending